Artist Profile: Kelli Jones

Celebrity Hair and Makeup Artist Who Gives Back to Her Community

By Tina Morris

At fourteen, Kelli Jones, or Kelli J as she prefers to be called, began styling hair for her friends. Little did she know; this hobby would lead to a lucrative career as a hair and makeup artist. Kelli J was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She has always had a love and appreciation for the creative arts, especially dancing and singing. She is a self-described foodie who loves to travel the world trying new things. Staying up to date in pop culture trends is important for this artist who loves reality TV.

Kelli J attended Empire Beauty School with the aspirations of becoming a top-notch stylist. She declined advice to branch into makeup at that time, so she could concentrate on honing her hair styling techniques. She began renting booths as an independent artist. For three years, she owned her own salon, but sold it to concentrate on freelance work. Years later, Kelli transitioned into makeup artistry, stating that it was a natural progression in her career.

Today, Kelli J does it all. She is a stylist for Atlanta & Co on WXIA, fashioning hair and makeup for the hosts and guest. She is an independent stylist offering one-on-one luxury appointments. For a luxury appointment, Kelli J pulls out all of the stops through private, uninterrupted service while performing an image consultation.

She is part of Ted Gibsons artistic team. Ted is a celebrity hairdresser to actresses such as Debra Messing, Anne Hathaway, Renee Zellweger, Kate Gosselin, Zoe Saldana and Ashley Greene among many others. He is based in NYC and was the hair expert for the cable show What Not to Wear. To become part of this elite team, Kelli J participated in a competition where she was one of the top two stylists. Kelli J has also styled for NY Fashion Week, hair conventions, and many celebrities.

As busy as Kelli J is, she also runs a bi-monthly Day of Diva where she works with various local organizations to give back to the community. In the past, she has worked with My Sisters House, the Atlanta Shelter and Jackson Memorial Baptist Church. Day of Diva is centered around giving confidence to women. For one woman who was preparing for a job interview, wardrobe, hair, makeup, and interview preparation was provided.

When it comes to hair, Kelli J loves the cut the most, calling it the foundation of any style. She specializes in cuts, weaves and natural hair. One of her influences is artist Nikki Nelms because of the iconic styles she creates. What is Kelli Js advice to other hair and makeup artists? Stay consistent, and never give up. It always pays off. Based on her own personal success, it seems that she took her own advice.